Drama

Drama

Why teach drama?

Drama has an important role to play in the personal development of our children. The skills and qualities developed by pupils in drama, such as teamwork, creativity, leadership and risk-taking, are assets in all subjects and all areas of life. Drama stimulates the imagination and allows students to explore issues and experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

It is vital to create an atmosphere of security, trust and concentration. Drama promotes self-esteem and provides all students with a sense of achievement, regardless of academic ability. It’s about social skills, good communication and having fun. Good drama requires a clear sense of discipline and direction from both teachers and students; all are equally responsible for the quality of learning that takes place.

At Cargilfield all children are involved in drama in class and, as often as possible, in performance for an audience. Role-play is central to learning through play in the Early Years and used regularly to enhance topics by both class teachers and a resident specialist. In Forms 4, 5 & 6 drama is used both in class and specialist-led lessons to consolidate learning in English, History, RS, Classics, to name a few. Drama is also taught at a high level to Year 7 & 8 children wanting to offer it at Scholarship to Senior Schools.

Pre Prep Children can attend a Performing Arts Club each week and Upper School children have a Drama Club twice weekly. Full productions on the school’s well-equipped stage are presented annually in P1, P2, P3, Form 7 & Form 8. Older children also have the opportunity to train in the technical side of theatre: lighting, sound, props-making, costume & make-up, etc., as well as working as stage managers and helping make scenery, dress sets and design posters and programmes.

So drama at Cargilfield is something for everyone and focuses on equal participation, teamwork, creativity and enjoyment.